The Buzz: For eight games, Hochstein (pronounced Hoke-stein) was the top reserve lineman for the Broncos. For game No. 9, Hochstein will be a starter. Hochstein was moved up the depth chart at left guard, ahead of Ben Hamilton, on Wednesday, and will start there against the Redskins on Sunday. Hochstein has previously played at right guard, fullback and tight end (as a blocker only) for the Broncos this season.

“He’s going to be able to be in the right spots and help us up front. Most of our linemen would fit the same description,” McDaniels said.”I feel like he will be competitive in there, and we’ll see how it goes.”

Looking ahead: Hochstein provides a bulkier presence on the inside of the line, which could help the Broncos protect Kyle Orton against the Redskins’ defensive line, including star defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth. The Broncos need the help up front after both the running game and passing game have stalled in recent weeks.

FYI: Hochstein is one of seven former New England Patriots brought to Denver by McDaniels since the start of free agency last winter (the others are receiver Jabar Gaffney, running back LaMont Jordan, defensive end Le Kevin Smith, long snapper Lonie Paxton, offensive lineman Brandon Gorin and cornerback Ty Law). But that wasn’t the only reunion for Hochstein in Denver. He also is once again blocking for running back Correll Buckhalter, just like when both were teammates at the University of Nebraska.

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